ABSTRACT

The origin of the principal nations of Europe may be traced to three large distinct strains: the Latin, Germanic, and Slavic. The Germanic nations steadily resisted the Roman yoke; they were civilized later and solely by Christianity. It is impossible that the German writers, the best-informed and most thoughtful men in Europe, should not deserve a moment's attention to their literature and their philosophy. Only a few basic characteristics are held in common by the entire German nation, for the diversities of this country are such that one is at a loss to combine from one viewpoint religions, governments, climates, and even peoples so different. In literature, as in politics, the Germans have too much consideration for foreigners and not enough national predilections. The demarcation of classes, much more positive in Germany than it was in France, necessarily destroyed the military spirit in the middle class.